Liver Disease Specialist Q&A

At Digestive Disease Care, our dedicated hepatologists specialize in diagnosing, managing, and treating various liver disorders and related digestive conditions. Liver disease specialists, also known as hepatologists, treat a variety of liver-related conditions.

These include chronic diseases such as hepatitis B and C, which can cause long-term liver damage if not properly managed. Hepatologists also treat fatty liver disease, which occurs when there is an excess buildup of fat in the liver. This condition is often linked to obesity, poor diet, and excessive alcohol consumption. In addition, autoimmune liver diseases, where the immune system attacks the liver, are common conditions that hepatologists manage.

Hepatologists use a range of diagnostic tools to assess liver health. Blood tests are commonly performed to check liver enzyme levels and identify any abnormalities. In some cases, a liver biopsy may be necessary to determine the extent of damage or disease. Once the diagnosis is made, hepatologists work closely with patients to develop a treatment plan. This may include lifestyle changes, such as improving diet and exercise habits, medications to control symptoms, or procedures aimed at preventing further damage to the liver and improving overall liver health.

At Digestive Disease Care, our goal is to improve patient outcomes through personalized attention, compassionate care, and advanced liver-focused treatments.

You should see a liver disease specialist, also known as a hepatologist, if you notice symptoms like jaundice, which is a yellowing of the skin or eyes, or if you experience unexplained fatigue, persistent abdominal discomfort, or pain in the upper right side of your abdomen. Other concerning signs include dark-colored urine, pale or clay-colored stools, and swelling in the abdomen or legs, which could indicate fluid retention. If these symptoms persist or worsen, it’s crucial to seek expert evaluation to determine the cause and severity of the condition. Liver disease can sometimes develop without obvious symptoms, so it’s important to be proactive about your health.

If you have a family history of liver disease, conditions such as fatty liver disease, or chronic illnesses like diabetes or high blood pressure, it’s a good idea to schedule regular check-ups with a hepatologist. Additionally, individuals who have a history of heavy alcohol use, hepatitis infections, or prolonged use of medications that can harm the liver should consult with a liver disease specialist. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent further liver damage, manage symptoms effectively, and improve your long-term health and quality of life. Regular monitoring is especially beneficial for those at higher risk.

At Digestive Disease Care, our skilled team is dedicated to providing comprehensive evaluation, accurate diagnosis, and personalized treatment plans aimed at preventing liver disease progression and enhancing your overall digestive health and quality of life.

A liver disease specialist, or hepatologist, monitors the progression of liver disease through a combination of clinical evaluations, laboratory tests, and physical exams. Initial assessments involve reviewing the patient’s medical history, conducting a physical exam, and observing signs such as jaundice, fluid retention, or confusion. The specialist may also monitor the size of the liver and spleen to evaluate the severity of liver damage. These evaluations help guide further diagnostic testing and treatment plans.

In addition to physical exams, blood tests are regularly used to measure liver function by checking enzyme levels and clotting factors. These tests help identify trends in liver function, allowing the hepatologist to track the disease’s progression. By monitoring these indicators over time, the specialist can adjust treatment strategies to slow progression and prevent further complications.

At Digestive Disease Care, our hepatologists closely monitor the liver’s condition to track disease progression and guide treatment decisions. Regular follow-up appointments and ongoing care are key to ensuring the best outcomes and improving patients’ quality of life.

Recognizing early signs of liver or digestive health issues is crucial for prompt diagnosis and effective management. Common symptoms such as jaundice, which causes yellowing of the skin and eyes, may indicate liver problems. Persistent abdominal pain or swelling, especially in the upper right side, should also be evaluated by a specialist.

Changes in urine or stool color, such as dark urine or pale stools, can signal liver-related conditions. Chronic fatigue, unexplained weight loss, or weakness can reflect liver dysfunction, as the liver plays a key role in metabolism and energy production. Nausea, loss of appetite, easy bruising, or excessive bleeding are also warning signs of liver problems, as the liver is responsible for producing clotting factors.

Additional symptoms like fluid buildup in the abdomen (ascites) or swelling in the legs and ankles may suggest advanced liver disease. Routine screenings and blood tests are vital, especially for individuals with risk factors like chronic liver conditions or heavy alcohol use. Early intervention can help manage these conditions effectively.

At Digestive Disease Care, early intervention, accurate diagnosis, and tailored treatment by our dedicated specialists can significantly improve outcomes, enhance quality of life, and support lasting digestive and liver health. Contact us now or book a consultation and start your path to better health. We have convenient locations to serve you in Babylon NY, East Setauket NY, Forest Hills NY, Jericho NY, Lake Success NY, Melville NY, Mineola NY, Massapequa NY, New Hyde Park NY, and Riverhead NY.